Bill > SB767

This bill establishes the Fair Chance Hiring Practices by Public Employers Act, which aims to reduce employment barriers for individuals with criminal records. The legislation applies to public employers in Oklahoma, defined as state and local government entities, and restricts their ability to inquire about an applicant's criminal history before making a conditional job offer. Specifically, public employers are prohibited from obtaining or asking about criminal record history information during the initial application process, with some exceptions. Employers may notify applicants about legal disqualifications and include limited questions about criminal convictions that would legally prevent employment. The bill does not apply to sensitive positions such as school district roles, law enforcement jobs, positions working with children or vulnerable adults, and roles with specific financial responsibilities. After making a conditional offer, employers can request and consider criminal history information when making final hiring decisions. The legislation is set to take effect on November 1, 2025, and will only apply to employment applications submitted on or after that date, providing a clear transition period for public employers to adapt to the new hiring practices.

Labor and Employment

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb767&Session=2600